'Borders' Planned Closure Evokes Disappointment, Sadness

Borders will begin its liquidation sale Saturday with 20 to 40 percent off all merchandise following this week's announcement that the company is in bankruptcy proceedings.

The company plans to close 400 stores, or just shy of one-third their locations, including the and Chesterfield.

Company representatives said that multiple financial issues contributed to the move toward shutting down those stores.

"It has become increasingly clear that in light of the environment of curtailed customer spending, our ongoing discussions with publishers ... and the company’s lack of liquidity, Borders Group does not have the capital resources it needs to be a viable competitor ..." Mike Edwards, Borders Group President said in a written statement.

As the company works to restructure itself in order to maintain its reduced presence, customers of all ages recall their own experiences at the Ballwin store, which is slated to be closed some time before the end of April.

Take a look at our photo gallery to hear from patrons at the Ballwin location, then submit your own comments below and tell us what you think.